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Santa Monica Pier to Host First Drive-In Movie Night

The Santa Monica Pier will host its first drive-in movie experience on January 15, featuring 'Grease' from 3:30-9:30pm. The event includes 1950s-themed activities, classic cars, live performances, and free popcorn for early arrivals.

Santa Monica Pier prepared for drive-in movie night with cars parked on the iconic wooden deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean
PIER: Santa Monica Pier Revs Up The New Year With First-Ever Drive-In Movie Night (Photo credit: Santa Monica Pier Corporation)
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The Santa Monica Pier will host its first drive-in movie experience Jan. 15, featuring a screening of "Grease" as part of "Locals' Night" from 3:30 to 9:30 p.m.

A limited number of vehicles will be allowed onto the upper pier deck for the screening, with audio transmitted via a dedicated radio station for a retro drive-in experience. The movie begins at 6:30 p.m.

Vehicle arrivals are scheduled between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m., with early arrival recommended for optimal parking. Guests must remain in place for the full screening, with exits permitted after 8 p.m. Those without vehicles can bring blankets and chairs, with space available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Additional activities include a costume contest encouraging 1950s-inspired attire, live DJ sets featuring oldies and classic hits, a classic car club showcase, and SAMOHI Acapella performances from 6 to 6:30 p.m. Free popcorn will be available for the first 200 moviegoers, with bar service for guests 21 and older.

Family-friendly Books & Cookies Musical Storytime sessions will take place inside the Merry Go-Round Building at 3:30 and 4:30 p.m.

"We're recreating a classic California drive-in experience—only this time, it's on top of the Santa Monica Pier," said Jim Harris, executive director and historian of the Santa Monica Pier. "It's nostalgic, it's joyful, and it brings generations together in a way only the Pier can."

Space is limited and advance RSVP is required. Free tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/locals-night-drive-in-movie-at-the-pier-tickets-1980013059361?aff=oddtdtcreator.

The event is presented by Pacific Park and made possible by the Santa Monica Pier Corporation, a nonprofit not fully funded by the city. The pier is located at 200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A, Santa Monica, CA 90401, and is accessible by rideshare, Metro, bus or bike.

Edited by SMDP Staff

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